The statement came after senior PP figures signalled their readiness to file a no-confidence motion targeting the Bhumjaithai-led Cabinet, arguing the government has failed to tackle systemic problems such as online scam networks and alleged collusion among state officials, reports the Bangkok Post.
Former Democrat MP Thepthai Senpong said Anutin’s eight-point statement can be interpreted in two parts.
The first four points reaffirm the government’s commitments under the Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) signed with the PP, including the pledge to amend the constitution, hold a referendum, and dissolve the House within 120 days of forming the government.
The latter half, however, appears to be a plea for the PP not to proceed with a censure debate, Mr Thepthai said, noting the tone suggests the prime minister is seeking sympathy by stressing the Bhumjaithai-led coalition is a minority and would almost certainly lose a confidence vote.
He added the statement floated alternatives such as a general debate without a vote or informal dialogue to solve political disputes.
Wanwichit Boonprong, a political scientist at Rangsit University, said the statement reflects Bhumjaithai’s unconventional political strategy ‒ inviting the opposition’s leading party to pursue a constructive resolution through mutual cooperation rather than confrontation in parliament.
“A threat of a no-confidence debate is unlikely to benefit the PP, as Anutin has already affirmed that parliament will be dissolved within the agreed timeframe,” Mr Wanwichit said.
He noted that economic problems, the border conflict with Cambodia, and ongoing flood crises remain unresolved, adding the PP risks alienating the public if it appears more focused on political manoeuvring than on national issues.
However, he said Bhumjaithai is also playing a second card by lobbying certain MPs to support the government if the debate goes ahead.
“I would say there’s about a 55% chance that a no-confidence debate will not happen,” he said.
“The government is accelerating efforts to tackle online scams. If legal action is taken against a certain politician involved in scams, both Bhumjaithai and the PP could benefit and find common ground.”
Earlier, key PP MPs Rangsiman Rome and Ruckchanok Srinork rejected concerns that Anutin might dissolve the House pre-emptively to avoid being grilled.
Mr Rangsiman said that while an early dissolution is legally within the PM’s powers, the public may interpret such an act as avoiding accountability.
He added the opposition is prepared to debate the government’s record, particularly its handling of widespread scam networks linked to officials in multiple agencies.
In his statement issued in Singapore on Friday (Nov 7), Anutin reaffirmed the House will be dissolved by Jan 31, 2026, in line with the 120-day timeline agreed with the PP.
He said the government’s priorities during this period are limited to constitutional amendment, preparations for a referendum, and the dissolution process.